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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION THAT HAS PASSED THE END DATE: 

National Certificate: Mining Operations for Underground Hard Rock 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
58739  National Certificate: Mining Operations for Underground Hard Rock 
ORIGINATOR
SGB Mining and Minerals 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
MQA - Mining Qualifications Authority  OQSF - Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
National Certificate  Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology  Fabrication and Extraction 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  130  Level 2  NQF Level 02  Regular-Unit Stds Based 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Passed the End Date -
Status was "Reregistered" 		 SAQA 06120/18  2018-07-01  2023-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2024-06-30   2027-06-30  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This qualification replaces: 
Qual ID Qualification Title Pre-2009 NQF Level NQF Level Min Credits Replacement Status
49013  National Certificate: Mining Operations: Underground Hard Rock  Level 2  NQF Level 02  140  Complete 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:

This qualification will provide qualifying learners with the necessary knowledge, understanding and competence to work as a first line mining supervisor in underground hardrock mines.

The mining supervisor plays a critical role in the mining industry. Mining activities are often conducted under hazardous and difficult conditions, which have to be managed appropriately in order to preserve the lives of those working in the industry, and ensure operational efficiency. While the title "supervisor" implies supervisory, management and leadership competencies, these competencies are applied in conjunction with technical and operational competencies. The mining supervisor is directly responsible for the lives of his team and not only for merely achieving production targets.

This qualification will have a positive impact on the production of minerals and contribute significantly to society in general and the South African economy. Furthermore, the mining industry creates opportunity for many secondary and tertiary mining and minerals related business activities. In many parts of South Africa, entire communities would be significantly affected if mining activities were to cease.

Learners acquiring this qualification will have an improved understanding of their role; acquire the applied competencies to consistently and effectively execute their duties by contributing to the mining process and adhering to quality, occupational safety and legislative requirements.

The qualification is designed to be flexible and accessible so that people are able to demonstrate the competencies required to work in a safe, healthy and effective manner in an underground environment.

People credited with this qualification are able to:
  • Communicate and solve problems in a variety of ways.
  • Adhere to occupational safety, health, environmental and legislative requirements.
  • Extract rock/minerals in accordance with production, occupational health and safety, quality and environmental requirements.
  • Supervise the activities of mining teams.

    Rationale:

    The mining industry is one of the major contributors to the South African GDP and by the nature of its operations employs a large number of people.

    Underground mining activities involve the safe breaking, removal and support of rock and are very labour intensive. Supervisors working underground require sound technical knowledge of the mining process as well as supervisory qualities to lead teams involved in all the activities directly related to extraction of rock or mineral.

    This qualification is a revision of the previous National Certificate in Mining Operations (NRLD 49013) registered with SAQA. Changes are incorporated as a result of 4 years of practical implementation in the mining industry and reflect the drive towards continual improvement.

    The National Certificate in Mining Operations for Underground Hard Rock NQF Level 2 facilitates access for previously disadvantaged groups and other learners to acquire the technical knowledge and skills that are required to supervise teams involved in the excavation and removal of rock in underground mines. It will enhance the status and employability of the learner within the mining and minerals industry and contribute significantly to his or her performance in terms of both quality and quantity of work output. The qualification also allows for further access, career progression, portability and mobility within and between the different mining operations' areas in the mining and minerals industry.

    This qualification will have a positive impact on the production on minerals and contribute significantly to society in general and the South African economy. Furthermore, the mining industry creates opportunity for many secondary and tertiary mining and minerals related business activities.

    This is the first in a learning pathway of four qualifications for Mining Operations. The pathway ends with the National Certificate in Mining Overseeing NQF Level 5. This qualification series recognises the skills, knowledge and values relevant to a workplace and requires workplace experience.

    The majority of the learners learning towards this qualification are likely to be working in the mining and minerals sector as team members involved in underground mining activities. The qualification will give them the opportunity to balance their practical skills with the essential knowledge needed to earn a formal qualification in the supervision of mining operations.

    Qualifying learners will obtain the National Certificate in Mining Operations for Underground Hard Rock NQF Level 2 which will enable them to directly supervise the teams involved in the safe breaking, removal and support of rock or mineral. Depending on their learning path and work experience before engaging in learning towards this qualification, a period of practical work may be required before commencing with the National Certificate in Rock Breaking NQF Level 3. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    It is assumed that learners embarking on learning towards this qualification are already competent in the following:
  • Communications and Mathematical Literacy - ABET Level 2.

    Learners who have achieved any of the registered mining skills programmes will also be better positioned in terms of achieving this qualification.

    Recognition of Prior Learning:

    This qualification can be achieved wholly or in part through recognition of prior learning in terms of the criteria laid out.

    Evidence can be presented in a variety of forms, including international or previous local qualifications, reports, testimonials mentioning functions performed, work records, portfolios, videos of practice and performance records.

    Access to Qualification:

    Access to this qualification is open; however it is preferable if learners have worked in an underground mine on a production team. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    Fundamental:
  • All 37 credits must be achieved.

    Core:
  • All 63 credits from the list of Core Unit Standards must be achieved.

    Elective:
  • A minimum of 30 credits at level 2 or above must be selected from the list of elective unit standards. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Communicate and solve problems in a variety of ways.

    2. Adhere to occupational health, safety, environmental and legislatory requirements in the workplace.

    3. Extract minerals or rock in accordance with production, occupational health and safety, quality, other legislatory and environmental requirements.
  • Range: Includes but not limited to MHSA and Regulations, Codes of Practice, Standards and procedures.

    4. Supervise the activities of mining teams.

    Critical Cross-Field Outcomes:

    This qualification addresses the following critical cross-field outcomes. The way in which the critical cross-field outcomes are addressed is presented in detail in the unit standards outlined in the Annexures.

    SAQA Critical Cross-Field Outcomes 1:

    Identifying and solving problems in which responses display that responsible decisions using critical thinking have been made.
  • Refer to all Exit Level Outcomes.

    SAQA Critical Cross-Field Outcomes 2:

    Working effectively with others as a member of a team, group, organization and community.
  • Refer to all Exit Level Outcomes.

    SAQA Critical Cross-Field Outcomes 3:

    Organising and managing oneself and one's activities responsibly and effectively.
  • Refer to the following Exit Level Outcome/s:
    > Communicate and solve problems in a variety of ways.
    > Extract minerals or rock in accordance with production, occupational health and safety, quality, other legislatory and environmental requirements.

    SAQA Critical Cross-Field Outcomes 4:

    Collecting, analyzing, organizing and critically evaluating information.
  • Refer to the following Exit Level Oucome/s:
    > Communicate and solve problems in a variety of ways.
    > Extract minerals or rock in accordance with production, occupational health and safety, quality, other legislatory and environmental requirements.
    > Supervise the activities of mining teams.

    SAQA Critical Cross-Field Outcomes 5:

    Communicating effectively using visual, mathematical and/or language skills.
  • Refer to the following Exit Level Outcome/s:
    > Communicate and solve problems in a variety of ways.
    > Supervise the activities of mining teams.

    SAQA Critical Cross-Field Outcomes 6:

    Using science and technology effectively and critically, showing responsibility toward the environment and health of others.
  • Refer to the following Exit Level Outcome/s:
    > Communicate and solve problems in a variety of ways.
    > Extract minerals or rock in accordance with production, occupational health and safety, quality, other legislatory and environmental requirements.
    > Supervise the activities of mining teams.

    SAQA Critical Cross-Field Outcomes 7:

    Demonstrating an understanding of the world as a set of related systems by recognizing that problem contexts do not exist in isolation.
  • Refer to the following Exit Level Outcome/s:
    > Extract minerals or rock in accordance with production, occupational health and safety, quality, other legislatory and environmental requirements.
    > Supervise the activities of mining teams.

    SAQA Critical Cross-Field Outcomes 8:

    Contributing to the full personal development of each learner and the social and economic development of society at large, by making it an underlying intention of the programme of learning to make an individual aware of:
  • Reflecting on and exploring a variety of strategies to learn more effectively.
  • Participating as responsible citizens in the life of local, national and global communities.
  • Being culturally and aesthetically sensitive across a range of contexts.
  • Exploring education and career opportunities.
  • Developing entrepreneurial opportunities.
  • Refer to the following Exit Level Outcome/s:
    > Communicate and solve problems in a variety of ways.
    > Supervise the activities of mining teams. 
    		•

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Oral communication is maintained and adapted as required to promote effective team work.
  • Written communication is conducted at an appropriate level for designated target audiences.
  • Numeracy skills are applied while performing tasks in the operational context.
  • Problems and solutions are recorded and monitored.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Occupational health, safety and environmental principles and practices are understood and applied in the workplace.
  • Hazardous conditions are identified and rectified on a continual basis to ensure the safety of persons in the workplace.
  • Hazardous conditions are monitored and reported on a continual basis to ensure the safety and health of persons.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • The mining cycle related to the extraction of mineral or rock is understood and applied in the workplace.
    > Range: The mining cycle refers to the safe breaking, removal and support of hardrock in accordance with site specific codes of practice.
  • Mining activities directly related to mineral extraction are conducted in order to achieve the required production rates in terms of quantity, quality and costs.
  • Mining activities are performed in accordance with the requirements of the current Mines Health and Safety Act and regulations, mine specific standards and procedures and relevant environmental requirements.
  • Engineering equipment and services are used effectively in the mining process.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Inputs from relevant sources are evaluated and discussed in order to achieve objectives.
  • Activities of team members are co-ordinated in order to achieve both individual and team work objectives.
  • Work outputs of the team are monitored, evaluated and where necessary corrected to achieve the desired targets.

    Integrated Assessment:

    Integrated assessment at the level of the qualification provides an opportunity for learners to show they are able to integrate concepts, actions and. ideas achieved across a range of unit standards and contexts.

    Integrated assessment must evaluate the quality of observable performance as well as the thinking behind the performance, and must be based on a summative assessment guide. The guide will spell out how the assessor will assess different aspects of the performance and will include:
  • Observing the learner at work (both in the primary activity as well as other interactions
  • Asking questions and initiating short discussions to test understanding.
  • Looking at records and reports in the portfolio and reviewing previous assessments.

    In some cases interference will be necessary to determine competence depending on the nature and context within which performance takes place.

    It is necessary to ensure that the fundamental part of the qualification is also targeted to ensure that while the competence may have been achieved in a particular context, learners are able to apply it in a range of other contexts and for future learning. The assessment should also ensure that all the critical cross-field outcomes have been achieved.

    The learner may choose in which language s/he wants to be assessed. This should be established as part of a process of preparing the learner for assessment and familiarising the learner with the approach being taken.

    While this is primarily a workplace-based qualification, evidence from other areas of endeavour may be introduced if pertinent to any of the exit-level outcomes. The assessment process should cover both the explicit tasks required for the qualification as well as the understanding of the concepts and principles that underpin the activities associated with the mining process. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    Mining activities occur in many countries all over the world, although the South African mining industry is more diverse than that of most other countries. South African mines are of the deepest in the world, which has required a high level of expertise and the maintenance of stringent occupational health and safety standards.

    In keeping with the diverse nature of the South African mining industry, the NC Mining Operations Level 2 covers both massive and narrow tabular mining, which makes it difficult to compare to another qualification which may cover only one of these contexts.

    The specific nature of underground hardrock, or narrow tabular, mining requires competencies and personal characteristics which are unique in relation to other forms of mining or minerals extraction. The mining conditions are intense, and workers are subject to physical and emotional challenges relating to restricted space, heat, humidity, darkness and hard physical labour.

    The materials, equipment and techniques applied in narrow tabular mining are very specialised and therefore comparable competencies, qualifications and courses will only be found where similar mining conditions are present.

    There are not many countries in the world where deep scale mining is practised, and therefore only a few comparable training programmes or qualifications could be found. After consultation with experienced mining engineers, it was decided to search for information in the following countries or regions for education and training systems pertaining to the safe breaking, removal and support of hard rock.
  • India.
  • New Zealand.
  • Australia.
  • North and South America.
  • Canada.
  • Zambia.
  • Botswana.

    Aspects searched for were qualifications, certificates, diplomas, skills programmes, training courses and examination syllabi.

    India, New Zealand, Canada and Australia are considered best practice because many aspects of their mining operations relate and compare to similar aspects of mining operations within the South African industry.

    A limiting aspect regarding international comparability is that the NQF Framework of South Africa and other countries are not identical, e.g. between South Africa and Australia. It is thus more meaningful to compare learning pathways, rather than individual qualifications. For that reason the NC Mining Operations Level 2 and Rockbreaking Level 3 have been in some cases compared to the same international qualifications, spanning both our levels.

    India:
  • India has one of the fastest growing economies in the world.
  • Mining practices are well established and considered to be best practice.
  • Underground mining conditions are similar to those envisaged in this qualification.
  • India has a well structured outcomes-based training and education system.
  • Details found (www.dqms.in)
    > There is a relation between the examination syllabi of the Mining Mates certificate and unit standards within the National Certificate in Mining Operations for Underground Hard Rock (Level 2) - South Africa as follows:

    Mining Mates Certificate:
  • Method of examining hanging wall, foot wall, roof and sides of working places and roadways etc.
  • Method of timbering, pack walling and setting support, withdrawal of supports, fencing of dangerous places.
  • Blasting and transport and use of explosives in mines.
  • Ventilation and mine gases- elementary.

    National Certificate in Mining Operations:
  • Follow basic health and safety practices underground.
  • Make safe a workplace by means of barring.
  • Demonstrate a basic understanding of the causes of falls of ground.
  • Support an underground working place by means of stick support.
  • Install and remove mechanical props.
  • Support an underground working place by means of timber pack support.
  • Install and remove hydraulic props.
  • Support an underground working place by means of sets.
  • Charge shot holes with cartridged explosives and accessories.
  • Charge shot holes with ammonium nitrate based explosives.
  • Charge shot holes with bulk explosives.
  • Transport explosives and accessories by means of rolling stock.
  • Transport explosives and accessories by means of a self propelled mobile machine.
  • Charge with propellant based cartridges.
  • Treat and remove misfires.
  • Determine velocity of air in a workplace by means of the tape method and take appropriate action.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of the most common harmful gases and vapours.
  • Test for flammable gas in a mining environment by means of a hand held electronic instrument and take appropriate action.
  • Describe the basic environmental factors of ventilating an underground working place to ensure a safe and healthy working environment.
  • Determine environmental thermal conditions in an underground workplace by means of a whirling hygrometer and take appropriate action.
  • Install underground workplace ventilation controls.

    Conclusions:
  • The Mining Mates certificate of competency appears to be pitched at a slightly higher level than the National Certificate in Mining Operations as it includes blasting experience/training.
  • There is a fair degree of correlation between the two qualifications.
  • Those competencies that relate to similar competencies within the National Certificate in Mining Operations seem to contain slightly less credits as they are probably more generalised.
  • The intent and content of the NC Mining Operations L2 compare favourably with the Indian qualification.

    New Zealand:
  • New Zealand has a well-developed economy and mining sector.
  • Mining conditions and practices are similar to those in South Africa, although the mines are not quite as deep.
  • Mining practices are well established and considered to be best practice.
  • New Zealand a well structured outcomes-based training and education system.
  • Details found (www.nzqa.govt.nz).
    > A National Certificate in Extractive Industries (Operations) was found.
    > There is a relation between the unit standards within the New Zealand qualification and unit standards within the National Certificate in Mining Operations for Underground Hard Rock (Level 2) - South Africa as follows:

    National Certificate in Extractive Industries (Operations):
  • Suppress fire with hand extinguishers and fixed hose reels.
  • Manage first aid in emergency situations.
  • Provide first aid.
  • Protect health and safety in the workplace.
  • Lift and move a range of loads at an extractive site.
  • Assess and support roof and sides of an underground mine.
  • Maintain services of an underground workplace.

    National Certificate in Mining Operations:
  • Extinguish a fire underground by means of a portable fire extinguisher.
  • Perform basic life support and/or first aid procedures in emergencies.
  • Follow basic health and safety practices underground.
  • Lift and move a load using mechanical lifting equipment.
  • Support an underground working place by means of timber pack support.
  • Install and remove hydraulic props.
  • Support an underground working place by means of sets.
  • Support an underground work place by means of wire mesh and lacing.
  • Support an underground working place by means of backfilling.
  • Support an underground working place by means of full column grouted rods.
  • Support an underground working place by means of a thin-sprayed lining.
  • Support an underground working place by means of mechanical anchors.
  • Support an underground workplace by means of grout packs.
  • Support an underground workplace with support straps.
  • Install an electrical cable.
  • Replace an in-line ventilation fan in an underground environment.
  • Install a set of rails.
  • Install a rail turn-out.

    Conclusions:
  • Although the National Certificate in Extractive Industries (Operations) is pitched at level 3 the majority of the unit standards that relate to unit standards within the National Certificate in Mining Operations have a slightly lower level and credits There is a fair degree of correlation between the two qualifications.
  • This is probably a result of the difference in the nature of mining operations between the two countries, the operations in South Africa being larger in scope and possibly more intensified.
  • The intent and content of the NC Mining Operations L2 compare favourably with the New Zealand qualification.

    Australia:
  • Australia has a well-developed economy and mining sector.
  • Mining conditions and practices are similar to those in South Africa, including some very deep mines.
  • Mining practices are well established and considered to be international best practice.
  • Australia has a well structured outcomes-based training and education system.
  • Details found (www.riisc.com.au).
    > A Certificate II in Metalliferous Mining Operations.
    > This qualifications compares to the South African qualification as follows:

    Certificate II in Metalliferous Mining Operations-Underground:
  • Work safely.
  • Conduct local risk assessment.
  • Plan and organize individual work.
  • Perform initial response First Aid.
  • Store, handle and transport explosives.
  • Install ground support.
  • Conduct wet filling activities.
  • Install and remove a secondary fan.

    National Certificate in Mining Operations:
  • Follow basic health and safety practices underground.
  • Conduct continuous hazard identification and risk assessment within a workplace.
  • Plan, organise, lead and control activities.
  • Perform basic life support and/or first aid procedures in emergencies.
  • Transport explosives and accessories by means of rolling stock.
  • Transport explosives and accessories by means of a self propelled mobile machine.
  • Support an underground working place by means of timber pack support.
  • Install and remove hydraulic props.
  • Support an underground working place by means of sets.
  • Support an underground work place by means of wire mesh and lacing.
  • Support an underground working place by means of backfilling.
  • Support an underground working place by means of full column grouted rods.
  • Support an underground working place by means of a thin-sprayed lining.
  • Support an underground working place by means of mechanical anchors.
  • Support an underground workplace by means of grout packs.
  • Support an underground workplace with support straps.
  • Replace an in-line ventilation fan in an underground environment.

    Conclusions:
  • The Australian and South African unit standards seem to be closely comparable in the case of the Certificate II in Metalliferous Mining Operations-Underground in terms of purpose, levels and credits.
  • The Australian unit standards might be more generalised in terms of the applicable outcomes.
  • Although not every aspect of the National Certificate in Mining Operations for Underground Hard Rock (Level 2) is covered within the above mentioned certificates, they provide useful training information in terms of the comparable portions to persons wanting to qualify for the South African certificate.
  • No comparable short courses or in-house programmes could be found.
  • The intent and content of the Australian Certificate II compare well to the South African National Certicate in Mining Operations (L2) for Underground Hardrock Mining.

    Canada:
  • Canada is a well-developed country.
  • Mining conditions and practices are similar to those in South Africa, including some very deep mines.
  • Education and training is not centralised, but each of the 13 provinces and regions is responsible for education and training.
  • There is a degree of cooperation by means of the Canadian Ministers of Education Council (CMEC).
  • According to the National Occupational Matrix underground miners are generally trained on the job.
  • Duties for underground miners are listed as:
    > Set up and operate drills and drilling machines to produce a designated pattern of blasting holes.
    > Operate diamond drills or other specialized drills such as raise boring machinery to test geological formations or to produce underground passageways.
    > Set up and operate mining machinery to shear coal, rock or ore from the working face.
    > Load explosives, set fuses, and detonate explosives to produce desired blasting patterns and rock fragmentation in underground mines.
    > Operate scooptram, load-haul-dump (LHD) machine or mucking machine to load and haul ore from stopes, drifts and drawpoints to ore passes.
    > Perform duties required to ensure safety and to support the mining advance, such as scaling loose rock from walls and roof, drilling and installing rock bolts, extending and installing air and water pipes, operating ore loading machinery, inspecting mine shafts, operating hoists that transport people, equipment and materials through mine shafts, and constructing timber supports and cribbing if required.
    > Perform routine maintenance of mining machinery.
  • The Saskatchewan Institute for Applied Skills and Technology offers an Underground Mining Level 1 Programme (www.siast.sk.ca) with relevant content courses (modules):
    > Ground Control.
    > Mine Ventilation.
    > Shaft Operations.
    > Introduction to Mining Safety.
    > Introduciton to the Mining Industry.
  • Conclusion: The competencies envisaged by the Mining Operations learning pathway will lead to competence in the duties listed above and one can thus conclude that the learning contents will compare favourably.

    Other Countries:
  • In the SADC region operators within the breaking, removal and support of hard rock in mines are taught the skills at the workplace. No generic courses/programmes could be found to perform a comparative analysis.
  • Apart from the countries listed above, no further qualifications, courses or programmes could be found that could be compared to the competencies within the National Certificate in Mining Operations for Underground Hard Rock (Level 2).

    Overall Conclusion:

    The NC Mining Operations L2 standards form a meaningful contribution to a learning pathway in underground mining. They are comparable to on the job training, courses and qualifications in the international arena. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    The qualification allows for both horizontal and vertical articulation.

    Horizontal:
  • National Certificate: Strata Control, NQF Level 2. (Under construction).
  • National Certificate: Mining Operations Underground Coal, NQF Level 2. (Under construction).

    Vertical:
  • ID 58760: National Certificate: Rock Breaker Underground Hardrock, NQF Level 3.
  • National Certificate: Rock Breaker Underground Coal, NQF Level 3. (Under construction).
  • National Certificate: Rock Breaker Surface Mining, NQF Level 3. (Under construction).

    The qualification articulates well with other mining related qualifications and will allow the individual to progress to other qualifications in mining, mining-related sub-fields and mining supervision in all the various sectors of the mining industry. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • Anyone assessing a learner or moderating the assessment of a learner against the qualification must be registered as an assessor with the relevant Education, Training, Quality, Assurance (ETQA) Body, or with an ETQA that has a Memorandum of Understanding with the relevant ETQA.
  • Any institution offering learning that will enable the achievement of this qualification must be accredited as a provider with the relevant Education, Training, Quality, Assurance (ETQA) Body, or with an ETQA that has a Memorandum of Understanding with the relevant ETQA.
  • Assessment and moderation of assessment will be overseen by the relevant Education, Training, Quality, Assurance (ETQA) Body, or by an ETQA that has a Memorandum of Understanding with the relevant ETQA, according to the ETQA's policies and guidelines for assessment and moderation.
  • Moderation must include both internal and external moderation of assessments, unless ETQA policies specify otherwise. Moderation should also encompass achievement of the competence described in the associated unit standards.
  • Anyone wishing to be assessed against this qualification may apply to be assessed by any assessment agency, assessor or provider institution that is accredited by the relevant ETQA. 
    		•

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    Assessors should be in possession of:
  • An appropriate qualification at or above the level of the qualification and preferably relevant workplace practical experience.
  • Registration as an assessor with the relevant ETQA. 
    		•

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Reregistered in 2012; 2015. 

    NOTES 
    This qualification replaces qualification 49013, "National Certificate: Mining Operations: Underground Hard Rock", Level 2, 140 credits. 

    UNIT STANDARDS: 
      ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL CREDITS
    Core  14656  Demonstrate an understanding of sexuality and sexually transmitted infections including HIV/AIDS  Level 1  NQF Level 01  5 
    Core  244431  Demonstrate an understanding of typical basic underground hard rock mining services, processes and layouts  Level 1  NQF Level 01  4 
    Core  244448  Extinguish a fire by means of a portable fire extinguisher  Level 1  NQF Level 01  1 
    Core  119567  Perform basic life support and first aid procedures  Level 1  NQF Level 01  5 
    Core  115087  Conduct a preliminary incident investigation into workplace health, safety and environmental incidents  Level 2  NQF Level 02  2 
    Core  244383  Conduct continuous hazard identification and risk assessment within a workplace  Level 2  NQF Level 02  2 
    Core  244453  Demonstrate an understanding of the identification of and dealing with rock strata conditions  Level 2  NQF Level 02  5 
    Core  244429  Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of blasting products and their usage in an underground hard rock environment  Level 2  NQF Level 02  2 
    Core  244400  Describe the basic environmental factors of ventilating an underground working place to ensure a safe and healthy working environment  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Core  244405  Determine environment thermal conditions in an underground workplace by means of a whirling hygrometer and take appropriate action  Level 2  NQF Level 02  2 
    Core  244368  Determine velocity of air in a workplace by means of the tape method and take appropriate action  Level 2  NQF Level 02  1 
    Core  244445  Follow basic health and safety practices underground  Level 2  NQF Level 02  5 
    Core  244408  Install and remove pipes and accessories  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Core  244416  Make safe a workplace by means of barring  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Core  244433  Test for flammable gas in a mining environment by means of a hand held electronic instrument and take appropriate action  Level 2  NQF Level 02  2 
    Core  244403  Analyse and solve problems  Level 3  NQF Level 03  4 
    Core  244422  Demonstrate knowledge of the most common harmful gases and vapours  Level 3  NQF Level 03  4 
    Core  244449  Plan, organise, lead and control activities  Level 3  NQF Level 03  10 
    Fundamental  119363  Apply concepts of shape, space and measurement to make decisions relative to the world around us  Below Level 1  Level TBA:Pre-2009 BelowL1  4 
    Fundamental  119376  Demonstrate an understanding and use of data handling and probability concepts  Below Level 1  Level TBA:Pre-2009 BelowL1  4 
    Fundamental  119637  Engage in a range of speaking/signing and listening interactions  Below Level 1  Level TBA:Pre-2009 BelowL1  6 
    Fundamental  119632  Use reading/viewing skills to respond to defined texts  Below Level 1  Level TBA:Pre-2009 BelowL1  8 
    Fundamental  119367  Work with numbers; operations with numbers and relationships between numbers  Below Level 1  Level TBA:Pre-2009 BelowL1  5 
    Fundamental  119375  Work with patterns, functions and algebra in different contexts  Below Level 1  Level TBA:Pre-2009 BelowL1  4 
    Fundamental  119639  Write/sign defined texts  Below Level 1  Level TBA:Pre-2009 BelowL1  6 
    Elective  9654  Acquire an appreciation for the role of rock engineering in the mining process  Level 1  NQF Level 01  4 
    Elective  244413  Construct a concrete winch bed  Level 1  NQF Level 01  1 
    Elective  244447  Extend tracks by means of jump-sets and sliding rails  Level 1  NQF Level 01  2 
    Elective  244446  Install a blocking barricade  Level 1  NQF Level 01  2 
    Elective  244402  Install a dust-allaying device  Level 1  NQF Level 01  1 
    Elective  244382  Load a battery onto and remove it from a locomotive  Level 1  NQF Level 01  1 
    Elective  244393  Transport explosives and accessories by means of rolling stock  Level 1  NQF Level 01  2 
    Elective  244442  Transport persons by means of a locomotive and carriage  Level 1  NQF Level 01  1 
    Elective  244417  Assemble and maintain scraper cleaning equipment and rigging  Level 2  NQF Level 02  7 
    Elective  244419  Assemble Oxy-acetylene equipment  Level 2  NQF Level 02  1 
    Elective  244414  Bar and break big rocks with a mobile scaler  Level 2  NQF Level 02  6 
    Elective  244369  Break big rocks by means of drilling and blasting with a secondary breaker  Level 2  NQF Level 02  7 
    Elective  244387  Break big rocks with a secondary breaker  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Elective  244443  Charge shot holes with primed explosives  Level 2  NQF Level 02  5 
    Elective  244401  Charge shot holes with propellant based cartridges and accessories  Level 2  NQF Level 02  2 
    Elective  244411  Construct an underground ladder-way  Level 2  NQF Level 02  2 
    Elective  244410  Construct and install platform  Level 2  NQF Level 02  1 
    Elective  244376  Cut mild steel by means of an Oxy-acetylene cutting torch  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Elective  244377  Doze material using a track dozer in an underground mine  Level 2  NQF Level 02  6 
    Elective  244409  Doze material using a Tyre Dozer in an underground mine  Level 2  NQF Level 02  6 
    Elective  244415  Drill holes by means of a hand-held rock drill  Level 2  NQF Level 02  4 
    Elective  244381  Drill holes by means of a stope drill-rig  Level 2  NQF Level 02  4 
    Elective  244363  Install a mono rope system  Level 2  NQF Level 02  4 
    Elective  244379  Install a rail turn-out in an underground workplace  Level 2  NQF Level 02  2 
    Elective  244398  Install a set of rails in an underground workplace  Level 2  NQF Level 02  2 
    Elective  244426  Install a stope box front and chute  Level 2  NQF Level 02  5 
    Elective  244430  Install a stope grizzly  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Elective  244367  Install a straining wire cable support system  Level 2  NQF Level 02  2 
    Elective  244451  Install an electrical cable  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Elective  244434  Install and remove ventilation columns and accessories  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Elective  244390  Install and remove ventilation columns, service columns and accessories by utilizing a scissor lift  Level 2  NQF Level 02  2 
    Elective  244425  Install underground workplace ventilation controls  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Elective  244365  Lift and move material and equipment by means of a forklift  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Elective  244361  Mark service holes underground  Level 2  NQF Level 02  4 
    Elective  244432  Measure, plot and interpret area measurements within an underground workplace  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Elective  244406  Move material by means of a mobilift in an underground mine  Level 2  NQF Level 02  6 
    Elective  244392  Operate a locomotive underground  Level 2  NQF Level 02  6 
    Elective  244404  Operate a monorail system  Level 2  NQF Level 02  4 
    Elective  244388  Re-rail a track bound unit  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Elective  244378  Receive, handle, store and issue explosives and accessories at a workplace  Level 2  NQF Level 02  2 
    Elective  244364  Remove an accumulation of water from an ore pass  Level 2  NQF Level 02  1 
    Elective  244394  Remove an obstruction from a draw point with a water canon  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Elective  244427  Remove broken rock by means of a high-pressure water jet unit  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Elective  244360  Remove broken rock by means of a scraper winch in an underground workplace  Level 2  NQF Level 02  4 
    Elective  244366  Remove broken rock by means of a suction unit  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Elective  244444  Remove broken rock by means of a track-bound mechanical loader  Level 2  NQF Level 02  5 
    Elective  10741  Replace an in-line ventilation fan in an underground environment  Level 2  NQF Level 02  2 
    Elective  244374  Shunt and tow material cars by means of a diesel powered tractor  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Elective  244450  Support an underground working place by means of anchors placed into drilled holes  Level 2  NQF Level 02  5 
    Elective  244370  Support an underground working place by means of area coverage of the rock surface  Level 2  NQF Level 02  8 
    Elective  244391  Support an underground working place by means of backfilling  Level 2  NQF Level 02  4 
    Elective  244385  Support an underground working place by means of elongated support units that are hydraulically stressed  Level 2  NQF Level 02  4 
    Elective  244420  Support an underground working place by means of packs  Level 2  NQF Level 02  5 
    Elective  244380  Support an underground working place by means of temporary support units  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Elective  244439  Support an underground workplace with support straps  Level 2  NQF Level 02  6 
    Elective  244373  Suppress dust in an underground mine using a water-bowzer.  Level 2  NQF Level 02  2 
    Elective  244441  Take charge of and drive a non-articulating vehicle underground  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Elective  254577  Take charge of and drive a trackless mobile machine in an underground mine  Level 2  NQF Level 02  4 
    Elective  244421  Time a blasting round or circuit on a face where conventional fuses are used  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Elective  244424  Time a blasting round or circuit on a face where electric/electronic delay detonators are used  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Elective  244384  Time a blasting round or circuit on a face where shock tubes are used  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Elective  244371  Transfer material using a Rigid Body Rear Dumper in an underground mine  Level 2  NQF Level 02  2 
    Elective  244399  Transport broken rock by means of a diesel-powered dump truck in an underground mine  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Elective  244440  Transport explosives and accessories by means of a Self Propelled mobile machine  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Elective  244386  Transport material and equipment by means of a mono rope system  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Elective  244375  Transport materials by means of a skid steer loader in an underground workplace  Level 2  NQF Level 02  4 
    Elective  244362  Transport persons, material and equipment by means of a diesel powered quadro cycle in an underground mine  Level 2  NQF Level 02  2 
    Elective  244395  Transport persons, material and equipment by means of a fixed saddle utility vehicle in an underground mine  Level 2  NQF Level 02  5 
    Elective  244412  Transport persons, material and equipment by means of a light delivery vehicle (LDV) in an underground mine  Level 2  NQF Level 02  2 
    Elective  244452  Transport persons, material and equipment by means of an interchangeable-saddle utility vehicle in an underground mine  Level 2  NQF Level 02  2 
    Elective  244359  Transport rock, material and equipment by means of rolling stock  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Elective  115093  Control workplace hazardous substances  Level 3  NQF Level 03  4 
    Elective  115750  Demonstrate a basic understanding of the causes of falls of ground  Level 3  NQF Level 03  2 
    Elective  244423  Grade roadways by means of a motor grader in an underground mine  Level 3  NQF Level 03  8 
    Elective  244407  Lift and move a load using mechanical lifting equipment  Level 3  NQF Level 03  7 
    Elective  244428  Replace an electric motor  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 
    Elective  244418  Support an underground working place by means of a concrete-spraying utility vehicle  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 
    Elective  244372  Support an underground workplace by means of a hydraulic roof bolter  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 
    Elective  244397  Take charge of and operate a remote controlled vehicle underground  Level 3  NQF Level 03  4 
    Elective  244396  Transport and load explosives into blast holes using a mixer-placer truck in an underground mine  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 


    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    When qualifications are replaced, some (but not all) of their learning programmes are moved to the replacement qualifications. If a learning programme appears to be missing from here, please check the replaced qualification.
     
    NONE 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    1. ADCORP TECHNICAL TRAINING (PTY) LTD 
    2. ASSMANG (PTY) LTD 
    3. AVENG (AFRICA) (PTY) LTD 
    4. BAFOKENG RASIMONE MANAGEMENT SERVICES PTY LTD 
    5. BANA BA THARI MINING TRANING AND DEVELOPMENT ACADEMY 
    6. BARBERTON MINES (PTY) LTD 
    7. BOOYSENDAL PLATINUM (PTY) LTD 
    8. CONCOR PROJECTS PTY LTD 
    9. EASTERN CHROME MINES 
    10. EASTERN CHROME MINES SAMANCOR 
    11. FINSCH DIAMOND MINE(PTY) LTD 
    12. FOSKOR (PTY) LTD 
    13. GEOSTRAT TRAINING 
    14. HARMONY GOLD MINING CO LTD 
    15. IMPALA PLATINUM SERVICES LTD 
    16. MARULA PLATINUM PTY LTD 
    17. MATHOME TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT (PTY) LTD 
    18. MMTI Holdings 
    19. MODIKWA MINING PERSONNEL SERVICES PTY L TD 
    20. NORTHAM PLATINUM LTD 
    21. PALABORA COPPER (PTY) LTD 
    22. PRISMA TRAINING SOLUTIONS (PTY) LTD 
    23. SASOL GLOBAL LEARNING 
    24. SIBANYE GOLD ACADEMY PROPRIETARY LIMITED 
    25. SIBANYE RUSTENBURG PLATINUM MINES PTY LTD 
    26. TAU LEKOA GOLD MINING COMPANY (PTY) LTD 
    27. TWO RIVERS PLATINUM (PTY) LTD 


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